Associations between Sensitivity to Cold, Menstruation-Related Symptoms and Handgrip Strength in Female University Students in Japan

Sensitivity to cold, which is a popular symptom in Japanese women, is associated with various symptoms such as shoulder stiffness and general fatigue. However, an association of sensitivity to cold with muscle strength has not been reported. The aim of the study was to clarify the associations of sensitivity to cold with handgrip strength and with menstruation-related symptoms in female university students in Japan. We recruited 278 female university students in Japan. Sensitivity to cold and menstruation-related symptoms including physical and psychological symptoms were assessed by using a self-administered questionnaire that we designed. Handgrip strength was measured by using a handgrip strength dynamometer. We received responses from 269 students. The prevalence rate of sensitivity to cold in the subjects was 54.3%. The students who had sensitivity to cold had a lower handgrip strength level (25.5 ± 3.8 kg) than did the students who did not have sensitivity to cold (26.7 ± 3.9 kg) (p = 0.017). Sensitivity to cold was associated with low body mass index. In addition, the students who had sensitivity to cold tended to have low back pain and constipation during menstruation. In conclusion, sensitivity to cold is an important symptom associated with muscle strength as well as menstruation-related symptoms for young women.

Relationships of Handgrip Strength with Menstruation-Related Symptoms in Female University Students in Japan

Introduction: Some somatic and psychological disorders have been associated with handgrip strength, which is an easy, inexpensive and noninvasive method for assessment of muscle strength. We conducted a cross-sectional study to clarify the relationship of handgrip strength and menstruation-related symptoms. Material and Methods: Handgrip strength was measured and a self-administered questionnaire was performed in female university students in Japan. Results: Handgrip strength did not significantly differ among the menstrual phases. The mean handgrip strength level (n = 260) was 26.0 ± 3.9 kg. We divided the subjects into three groups according to the handgrip strength level. Handgrip strength was associated with degrees of depression and anxiety during menstruation. Conclusion: This can be used as fundamental data in further clarifying the relationship between muscle strength and menstruation-related symptoms.